Effect of Physical and Human Factors on Temporal and Spatial Variations of Dissolved Oxygen in Kuwait Bay

The primary aim of this research is to obtain a better understanding of (a) temporal and spatial variations of dissolved oxygen in Kuwait Bay and (b) the physical and human factors involved in controlling these variations. For this purpose, we performed various statistical and field investigations to analyse and interpret the main factors, which included temperature, salinity and power stations. Data obtained from the Environment Public Authority, the Ministry of Electricity and Water, and field-work were analysed statistically to determine whether a relationship between dissolved oxygen and other factors exists and which factors have a significant effect on dissolved oxygen. The results revealed varying degrees of dissolved oxygen, temperature and salinity in Kuwait Bay throughout the year, whereas spatial variations were less noticeable. Conversely, power stations increase production during summer months; the Western Doha Station recorded its highest production and the Alshuwaikh its lowest. Based on an analysis of the relationship between dissolved oxygen and other factors, only temperature among the physical factors has an inverse relationship, while dissolved oxygen is controlled positively by the distance from power stations.